A FORMER Army captain who has dedicated 47 years of his life to serving Queen and country has been recognised in the New Year's Honour's list.

Blackley's Bob Pritchard, aged 65, is among a select group, from famous names and faces to dedicated community volunteers, to receive an MBE.

Captain Pritchard, who served with the Royal Artillery for 30 years before becoming a regional welfare officer for Combat Stress, was rewarded for his contribution to ex-servicemen and women.

But the commendation came as a shock to Captain Pritchard, from Hinchley Road, who told the Guardian it was an honour simply to do the job.

He said: "It was a very pleasant surprise but totally out of the blue."

The welfare post, which he held for 17 years before retiring in May, involved visiting ex-service personnel suffering with mental health difficulties as a result of combat.

And in his time Captain Pritchard says he has clocked up enough miles to take him to the moon and back.

He added: "The job is a commitment so come hail, rain or snow I would achieve the objective of going to see that person, even it is just to sit down and talk to them.

"The post itself was easy for me as I've been involved with the services all my life, starting off as a private and moving through the ranks, so I was able to listen to what they had to say and empathise with what they are going through.

"I'm just grateful for having the opportunity to serve these people but it is quite emotional to find out that someone recognises when you're doing a little bit of good."

Captain Pritchard found out he was to receive the MBE in a letter several weeks ago but kept it secret, even from his family.

But he said Jean, and his three daughters, were all over the moon when they saw his name on the list.

He said: "My family are very proud but they know that I'm quite laid back. There will be no pomp and circumstance but I am looking forward to receiving the award and we had our own celebration on New Year's Eve."